Page 30 - 2017 August Voices

PERSPECTIVES

A Little “Something” Can Make

All the Difference

by Leanna Lindquist, DTM, IPDD303

Christmas in July Distinguished. It helped the Division become
is the theme for the Distinguished. The new member, Dave, is putting
Hallmark Channel on a humor workshop for another club. A ripple
this month. I tuned effect has been created.
into the movie. Journey Back to Christmas, One of my favorite stories is that of Ryan
on Sunday. The gist of the story was, “a little Avery. His dad suggested he join Toastmasters
‘something’ can make all the difference.” The to rid his speech of the word “like.” It was just a
lead character introduced two people years ago. little suggestion to help Ryan. The results were
This simple act led to marriage and the family in not immediate. Over a period of time, Ryan
the movie; the lives they touched and the town became a World Champion of Public Speaking.
where they lived. That was just one example of Then a keynote speaker, trainer and coach. His
the many “somethings” that made a difference. entire life was turned upside down by a little
What does this have to do with Toastmasters? “something” his dad offered. Who knows what
(I’m glad you asked.) the ripple effect has been. Who did Ryan inspire?
Think about your own personal growth. Are What kind of a difference has he made in the
you someone, or do you know someone, who lives of others; in his life and that of his family?
hasn’t given a speech in a long while? Do you When we look beyond ourselves and see the
rarely, if ever, bring your Competent Leader big picture, all those little “somethings” can make
manual? A speech brings you one step closer a huge difference. This was the case for District 7
to earning an award. The speech you give may this past year. We were one paid club away from
inspire, bring a laugh to someone who needs meeting our Club Growth Goal and receiving
one, or connect you to someone who may change recognition at the upcoming International
your life. Convention. Had one club paid dues for 8
Have you turned down a request to members on time we would have made it. Had
serve as a club officer? What if you said
yes? Could you submit the officers list
on time and attend officers’ training to
earn credit for your club? Could you
encourage and help members meet their
goals? Could your little “something”
make all the difference?
Tell Me a Story Toastmasters Club
went from being on life support to
7 goals and 13 members. One more
member was needed for the club to
become Select Distinguished. In early
June, the 14th member joined. He joined
for his own reasons. His act of joining
made a difference. The club became
Select Distinguished and the Area

30 VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 JULY, 2017